Mind games over murder, again

Ajay Devgn

Some stories lend themselves organically to a sequel. Anees Bazmee believes his 2002 psychological thriller, Deewangee, is one such film. Twenty-one years after its release, the director and leading man Ajay Devgn are planning to reunite for its sequel. While Bazmee, since last year, has expressed interest in returning to the thriller's world, sources say that he is now working towards cracking a script that takes the narrative forward.

Deewangee saw a battle of wits between Akshaye Khanna and Ajay Devgn's characters

Loosely inspired by Primal Fear (1996), Deewangee revolved around Devgn's Tarang, who pretends to have split personality disorder to escape being convicted for a murder, with Akshaye Khanna playing his unsuspecting lawyer. It marked the first all-black role for Devgn, who then explored more villainous roles in Khakee (2004), Kaal (2005), Apaharan (2005) and many other films. One hears that the actor's desire to slip into a dark role again sparked off the conversation around the sequel. "It was Ajay who suggested that Anees explore the possibility of a second instalment. The superstar, whose upcoming releases include Maidaan and Singham Again, has not played a villain in quite some time, and is keen to revisit that end of the spectrum," reveals a source.

Anees Bazmee

Deewangee's open ending - Tarang was believed to have drowned in a river, but his body was not recovered - gives them the perfect setting. Bazmee's script will focus on the character 20 years since his supposed death. But it will be a while before the actor-director duo can head to the set. The source adds, "Anees is busy prepping for Kartik Aaryan's Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, which rolls early next year. He will simultaneously search for the right story for Deewangee 2. Ajay too has a packed calendar with Singham Again and De De Pyaar De 2. Only after they have honoured their commitments, will the two join forces to make a twisted thriller."

When contacted, Bazmee confirmed the development, saying, "Ajay and I have been discussing making Deewangee 2; he is keen to do it. It is a much-remembered character. Imagine how much more cunning Tarang can become in 20 years! As soon as we get a [promising] story, we will develop the sequel. As of now, I want to concentrate on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3."